INFLUENCER OF THE WEEK: Kristen Bryant, Southwest Middle School

Kristen Bryant is an eighth-grade English Language Arts teacher, middle school color guard teacher and yearbook teacher at Southwest Middle School. She also teaches Dr. Phillips High School’s eurythmics program, which is the school’s artistic color guard that performs with the band in the fall and competes during the winter season. 

Bryant has been recognized as Teacher of the Year and has had opportunities to lead teams and present professional development on her campus and other campuses. She also has received grants.

She is most proud of the art, relationships and experiences for students she has created. This school year, Dr. Phillips High’s winter guard won the Florida Federation of Colorguards Circuit state championship.

“This teacher goes above and beyond for her students,” Southwest Middle Principal Damian Rosado said. “Not only does she do an amazing job as a language arts teacher and sponsors the yearbook, she also coaches the color guard here at SWMS and Dr. Phillips High School. … She is the department chair for the Language Arts department and is the School CTA representative. She also coordinates and facilitates the eighth-grade day of festivities. She also takes an active role in mentoring students and teachers.”

What brought you to your school? 

After spending 14 years in elementary school, I decided to make the jump to middle school, and I’ve never looked back. The middle-schoolers are quirky and fun, and each day is unique.

What do you love most about your school? 

The people I work with is what makes the school more than just a job.

What is the most rewarding part of your job? 

When students come back and thank me for teaching them something or just letting me know that they appreciated that I cared.

What would you be if you weren’t in this profession? 

Honestly, I wouldn’t be in another profession. I wanted to be a teacher since I was 5 years old. I’ve been teaching for 25 years with no regrets.

Who was your favorite teacher when you were in school? Why? 

My favorite teacher was Mr. McGuffin, my middle school band director. He took an interest in students, had high expectations but always with the sense of fun. He grew students not only as musicians but, more important, as people.

What is your favorite children’s book and why? 

“Miss Piggle Wiggle.” I love that she was loved by children because she didn’t think kids were a nuisance. However, she always had creative ways to fix their bad habits for their parents. The humor in the books made reading them so much fun.

What do you like to do in your spare time? 

I enjoy binge-watching shows on Netflix with my two dogs, Gus and Gracie.

If you could have any superpower, what would it be and why? 

I’d like to be like Samantha on “Bewitched.” It would be great to make anything happen with just a wiggle of the nose, however, I guess that would require learning how to wiggle my nose.

If you could only listen to three bands or artists, who would they be and why? 

Shania Twain, Indigo Girls and the Dixie Chicks. Their music is fun, and there is usually a message of empowerment in their songs.

What was your go-to lunch and favorite snack as an elementary student? 

Bologna and cheese was my go-to sandwich. Oreo cookies were my favorite snack.

What is your favorite holiday and why? 

Christmas because my dad was military and traveled a lot. However, somehow he always made it home for Christmas. Christmas represents family to me.

Who was your best friend when you were in school and why? Are you still in touch? 

Becky Bates. She moved in next door when I was in the fourth grade. We are still best friends to this day. I often think how grateful I am to her parents for buying that house.

What were your extracurricular activities as a student? Did you win any accolades or honors? 

I was in band and in color guard, and I was a member and president of the FEA (Future Educators of America).